Energy Conscious Gift Guide

In the 1950s, the average American home had 1 or 2 electrical outlets per room. This was more than enough to accommodate the limited range of appliances that most homeowners had.

Nowadays, standard homes come with 2 to 3 outlets per wall (per room). Total energy consumption has soared over the past several decades as we continue to buy more TVs, smart phones, waffle makers, and everything in between. With skyrocketing utility rates, these “modern” conveniences have made life a lot more expensive.

But it doesn’t have to be this way.

With a little foresight, you can help your friends and family members reduce their energy consumption and save money in the process.

Here are some holiday shopping tips from Direct Energy Solar to you.

Tip 1: Focus on Experiences Instead of Physical Gifts

Physical holiday presents must be manufactured, shipped, and wrapped—all of which are energy-intensive processes. By contrast, intangible experiences require far fewer material resources.

Affordable examples include:

Homemade dinners or picnics in the park

Massage sessions or music lessons

Redeemable coupons for “household”chores

Remember that physical gifts eventually get discarded and forgotten. But the memories from a positive experience can last a lifetime.

Tip 2: Avoid Gifts That Require Electricity

If buying a physical gift, stay away from any presents that require power sources. Even better, stick with items that can replace traditional energy hogs. For example:

Bicycles are great substitutes for gas-guzzling cars

Board games can easily replace a night of electricity-consuming television

Handmade sweaters the need to set the thermostat to a higher temperature

Tip 3: Buy Energy-Efficient Appliances

To maximize the energy savings of these gifts, make it easy for recipients to get rid of outdated appliances responsibly. Numerous recycling programs and donation options exist for nearly every gadget under the sun.

Although these may be unconventional by some standards, the super eco-conscious will appreciate these unusual gift ideas.

The Best Green Present of All?

Becoming truly energy conscious requires focus. You must constantly be aware of how and when you consume electricity. Maintaining this presence of mind can be difficult—even for the greenest among us.

A better solution?

Opt out of expensive, dirty energy altogether, tap into a clean and infinite power source, and put some money back into your pocket. It’s simple.

This is the beauty of solar energy. Homeowners who install photovoltaic (PV) panels on the rooftops are able to create their own green electricity with every sunrise. This is not only better for their pocketbooks, but it’s also better for the environment.

And the best part of all—getting started doesn’t cost a dime.

While shopping for your loved ones this holiday season, how about a present for yourself?

Schedule a free appointment with Direct Energy Solar. Our team of solar professionals will inspect your home or business and recommend an affordable solar solution that meets your budget.

If you’re already an Direct Energy Solar customer, how about scheduling a free solar consultation for your friends and family? They’ll thank you repeatedly as they benefit from decades of lower electricity bills and smaller carbon footprints.

As an added bonus, they’ll also have more money to spend on your holiday gifts every season.

Power your business with solar.

Offers and financing are available to customers who qualify, vary by location, and are not available in all areas. We customize our solar power system specifically for your facility, therefore, pricing, savings, utility bill, solar bill amounts and actual returns vary based on different factors including but not limited to your location, system size, available solar incentives and local utility rates. See terms and conditions for more details.